If you suffer from Sewer Back Ups or a Flooded Basement a Sewer Check Valve may be the answer. In certain areas of NYC a public sewer back up may cause a flooded basement. The back up can typically be due to heavy rains or over development in the area causing the system to be over burdened. Other possible causes of a sewer back up could be a malfunctioning city sewer, a high groundwater table, although there are various other reasons as well. These type of back ups can cause a lot of damage and distress for a property owner – But have to be addressed carefully to avoid spending money needlessly on unnecessary repairs that don’t solve the problem.
Sewer check valve
In all of the cases listed above a backed up drain does not mean that the house sewer line is defective or even needs to be cleaned – even though a cleaning should usually be the first step in diagnosing the issue. Many times the solution to stopping a flooded basement from happening and stopping recurring back ups is by installing a sewer check valve, also known as a backwater valve. A sewer back water valve is a one-way valve that only lets water out, and automatically closes when water attempts to enter the house drain system. A sewer check valve (backwater valve) is a very simple and dependable device. The one pictured in this post greatly reduces backflow of water, but does not eliminate it totally. The device pictured is primarily effective when a flash storm hits, not for when a public sewer is non-functioning for a long period of time. There are more expensive and sophisticated devices available for other situations, but in most cases they are not necessary.
Once installed a sewer check valve needs maintenance once or twice a year to make sure it is clear of any debris or sediment that may block the flapper in the valve. This maintenance is done in a couple minutes by removing four screws with any number of simple tools. No special skill or tools are needed, and this maintenance will ensure many years of dependable operation. Joseph L. Balkan Inc. has been specializing in all types of sub surface plumbing issues for over 60 years. This family owned business has been installing sewer check valves, backwater valves professionally and successfully for many years and has a long list of satisfied customers.
Backwater valve
Here is what to expect when you call Balkan to inquire about a sewer check valve due to a flooded basement issue from a sewer back up:
- A discussion of your sewer back up issue over the phone or a prompt response to any web site inquiry by an experienced sewer professional.
- A free on-site visit by an experienced field representative with no obligation whatsoever.
- A careful assessment of your situation – Balkan will take great care to never perform unnecessary work and waste your money.
- If the site visit determines that a sewer check valve will solve the problem, you will receive a free written quote explaining the installation with no obligation.
What to expect from a sewer check valve installation
Hiring a licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company with over 60 years of experience has its benefits:
- Work started and completed on the backwater valve in one day with no sub-contracting.
- Most sewer check valve installations include a new water tight access pit with a matching fitted cover that is also slip resistant.
- All disturbed cement is professionally restored using 5,000 PSI concrete that is also water proof.
- American made materials and fittings.
- A work site left broom clean.
- A written guarantee.
- A completed installation performed at the quoted price.
- The end of city sewer back ups flooding your basement from your house sewer.
An added benefit
Water tight access pit
Because we use composite access pits that are water tight with fitted and locking covers there is an added benefit to our installations. Coupled with using 5,000 PSI concrete that is essentially water-proof the finished installation itself is water-proof. That means that if you ever suffered from water seeping into your sewer pit from heavy rainfall, a groundwater condition, or other reason, that issue will be resolved. That will result in no more foul smelling and damp conditions that you may have been suffering with for years.
In addition because our pits have fitted and locking covers you will not be left with a trip hazard or unsightly hole in your basement or garage floor. Because these pits and covers are made from composite materials they will never rust or rot away. Attention to detail is what makes our plumbing installations different form others. Balkan has a company-wide commitment to quality and service, and is backed by 60 years of experience. We provide answers and solutions – not excuses.
